Pesto Mozzarella Sliders

Name: Pesto Mozzarella Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 12 slider buns; 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced; 1/2 cup pesto sauce; 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore these Pesto Mozzarella Sliders! Whenever I host friends or family, these little bites steal the show every single time. The combination of gooey mozzarella cheese, zesty pesto, and soft slider buns creates a delightful experience. Not only are they quick to make, but they also allow for a variety of flavor twists, which is always fun to experiment with. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a more elaborate affair, these sliders are always a hit that leaves everyone craving more.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:58:11.668Z

During one of my weekend get-togethers, I decided to whip up some Pesto Mozzarella Sliders. I had some fresh mozzarella and homemade pesto on hand, and it turned out to be a winning combination! The simplicity of placing everything in the oven allowed the flavors to meld beautifully. I particularly enjoyed watching the cheese melt and bubble over the edges, tantalizing everyone’s taste buds.

After experimenting with different sauces, I've concluded that homemade pesto really takes these sliders to the next level. It adds depth and freshness that can't be beat. As a tip, try to let the sliders rest for a few minutes after baking to avoid burning your tongue on the molten cheese. You won’t regret mastering these delicious sliders!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Fresh, vibrant flavors that awaken the palate
Cheesy goodness that pulls apart like a dream
Perfectly portable for parties or picnics

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When it comes to these Pesto Mozzarella Sliders, using fresh ingredients makes all the difference. Fresh mozzarella not only provides a creamy texture but also melts beautifully, creating that satisfying pull when you take a bite. Opt for buffalo mozzarella if you can find it; the richness really enhances the overall flavor and mouthfeel. Ensure your basil pesto is made from quality ingredients as well, as the freshness of basil plays a crucial role in the flavor profile of the sliders.

If you're looking to add a twist to your sliders, consider making your own pesto. This allows you to control the balance of flavors, adding nuts or greens to customize it to your liking. Homemade pesto can also incorporate other herbs like parsley or arugula to create a unique variation, while still maintaining that bright and vibrant taste that perfectly compliments the mozzarella.

Perfecting the Assembly

As you assemble your sliders, don’t skimp on the layers. Start with a generous spread of pesto on the bottom bun, then add enough mozzarella to almost overflow. This not only ensures a flavorful bite every time but also helps hold everything together. If you opt to include cherry tomatoes, make sure they are not overly large; halving them allows easier biting and prevents excess moisture from making the buns soggy during baking. Remember, an equal distribution of ingredients in each slider results in a more enjoyable experience.

A tip for getting the best melt on your cheese is to cover your assembled sliders with foil for the first half of the baking time. This creates steam, which helps the cheese melt thoroughly before it browns. After 10 minutes, remove the foil and let them bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, just until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbling. This method ensures a gooey inside with a lovely, slightly crispy top.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your sliders:

Sliders Ingredients

12 slider buns
2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/2 cup pesto sauce
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Have fun customizing your sliders with various toppings and sauces as desired!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your sliders:

Preheat the oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the buns

Cut the slider buns in half and brush the insides with olive oil.

Assemble the sliders

Spread pesto on the bottom half of each bun, layer with mozzarella slices, and add halved cherry tomatoes if using. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Bake the sliders

Cover the sliders with the top halves of the buns and place them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and enjoy

Remove from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, slice and serve warm!

Experiment with different toppings to find your perfect slider combination!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes inside the sliders before baking.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve these sliders for a gathering, you can prep the ingredients in advance. Assemble the sliders without baking them and store them in a covered dish in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you're ready to serve, simply bake them straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they heat through completely.

Another great make-ahead option is to freeze unbaked sliders. After assembling, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to eat, no need to thaw; just place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. This way, you can always have a delicious snack on hand!

Serving Suggestions

These Pesto Mozzarella Sliders pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, making them an excellent choice for a light lunch or dinner. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese and pesto, offering a refreshing bite between sliders. You can also serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces, such as balsamic glaze or marinara, to add another layer of flavor and creativity to your meal.

For an even more casual approach, consider turning these sliders into a party platter. Serve them on a large wooden board, alongside charcuterie elements like cured meats or olives, and highlight the vibrant colors of the fresh ingredients. This presentation makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy while mingling, and it elevates the dish into a true centerpiece for any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the sliders and refrigerate them, then bake when you're ready to serve.

→ What type of pesto should I use?

Fresh homemade pesto is ideal, but store-bought varieties work well too if you're short on time.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Ricotta, goat cheese, or even a cheddar blend would work great.

→ How can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Simply swap out regular slider buns for gluten-free buns available at most grocery stores.